Standard Deduction
The standard deduction is a flat amount that reduces the income you're taxed on, no receipts required. Most filers take it instead of itemizing because it's larger than their deductible expenses — for 2026 it's $16,100 for single filers and $32,200 for married couples filing jointly.
You choose the standard deduction or itemized deductions (mortgage interest, state taxes, charity), whichever is bigger. The near-doubling of the standard deduction in 2018 is why the large majority of households now take it and skip itemizing entirely.
Put it to work
Federal Income Tax Calculator
Estimate your 2026 federal income tax: total tax, effective and marginal rates, and a bracket-by-bracket breakdown using official IRS figures.
Take-Home Pay Calculator
See your actual paycheck after federal tax, Social Security, Medicare, 401(k), health premiums, and state tax — per paycheck and per year (2026 figures).